Ultrasonic guidance for needle placement (eg, biopsy, aspiration, injection, localization device), imaging supervision and interpretation

CPT4 code

Name of the Procedure:

Ultrasonic Guidance for Needle Placement (e.g., biopsy, aspiration, injection, localization device)

Common Names: Ultrasound-Guided Needle Placement, Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy

Summary

Ultrasonic guidance for needle placement involves using ultrasound imaging to accurately position a needle within the body for various purposes such as taking tissue samples (biopsy), draining fluids (aspiration), administering medications (injection), or placing localization devices. This technique enhances precision and safety.

Purpose

Medical Condition or Problem

The procedure is used for:

Diagnosing abnormalities such as tumors or infections.
Treating fluid collections (e.g., abscesses).
Administering precise injections.
Placing localization devices for surgical planning.

Goals or Expected Outcomes

Accurate needle placement with minimal discomfort.
Reduced risk of complications.
Effective diagnosis or treatment of the target condition.

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions

Suspicious lumps or masses.
Fluid build-up needing drainage.
Need for precise medication delivery.
Requirement for tissue samples for diagnostic purposes.

Patient Criteria

Patients with palpable or non-palpable abnormalities detected via imaging.
Individuals requiring specific and targeted tissue or fluid extraction.
Patients needing localized therapy delivery under guidance.

Preparation

Follow fasting instructions if sedation is used.
Adjust or suspend certain medications as advised by the doctor.
Complete any required imaging or diagnostic tests prior to the procedure.

Procedure Description

Initial Preparation: The patient is positioned comfortably. The skin over the target area is cleaned and sterilized.
Ultrasound Imaging: A cool gel is applied to the skin, and an ultrasound probe is moved over the area to visualize the internal structures.
Needle Placement: Under real-time ultrasound guidance, the healthcare provider inserts the needle through the skin and advances it to the target area.
Completion: Once the procedure is complete, the needle is withdrawn, and a bandage is applied to the insertion site.

Tools and Equipment

Ultrasound machine with a transducer probe.
Sterile needles, syringes, and collection containers.
Local anesthesia (optional).

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

Performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

Radiologist or specially trained physician.
Ultrasound technician.
Nursing staff for patient care and assistance.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks

Minor discomfort or bruising at the needle site.
Risk of infection.

Rare Risks

Bleeding.
Injury to surrounding organs or structures.
Allergic reaction to local anesthesia.

Benefits

High accuracy in needle placement.
Minimally invasive with quick recovery.
Provides critical diagnostic information or therapeutic benefit.

Recovery

Minor soreness at the needle site.
Follow-up instructions may include avoiding strenuous activities for 24-48 hours.
Specific care instructions for the puncture site.
Scheduling of follow-up appointments to discuss results or further treatment.

Alternatives

Traditional Needle Placement: without imaging guidance, which might have lower precision.
CT or MRI Guidance: for deeper or less accessible targets but may involve more radiation exposure or longer duration.